Hearthstone - First Time Getting Legend

Hello, long time no post.

Hearthstone is one of the few games I play casually these days, and I finally decided to get legend ranking this month. I've been close a few times, but I never committed enough games to get it. Theoretically, as long as you can get to rank 5 and maintain a win rate over 50% you can get it; the higher your win rate, the lower the number of games you have to grind to get there. I was lazy and didn't track my stats and matchups, so I can't provide that.

I think it took me about 5 days of playing several hours a day from rank 5 to get it. Here are the lists that I used:

I used the shaman list to get to about rank 3 and 3 stars and used the hunter list the rest of the way because hunter games were usually quicker. Credits for the hunter list goes to JAB and the shaman list goes to Khymera. Check those guys out if you want to. Neither decks cost an exorbitant amount of dust, so try them out if you want to.

As far as posting on anime, I feel that watching it mindlessly for fun is more enjoyable that watching for something to write about. The three that I'm enjoying this season are Shingeki no Bahamut Genesis, Fate/stay Night Unlimited Blade Works, and Amagi Brilliant Park. Check them out and have fun!

-Bern

Ryuugajou Nanana no Maizoukin - Brief Final Thoughts

I haven't written anything in a long time so I thought I'd do so for the only spring 2014 anime that I followed this past season. There will probably be some spoilers if you want to proceed.

Nanana is a light novel adaption in the noitaminA timeslot for one cour so it only had 11 episodes. After watching the first few episodes, I thought it had the potential for a decent story. Many weeks later, I was severely underwhelmed. There exists different types of treasures on the island which different people seek out for their own goals. Perhaps the main plot line was to find the person who murdered Nanana. However, not much has changed at end of the 11th episode, except that the main cast is slightly closer and that the main character is more resolved to accomplish said main goal. Even the final scene after the ED only teases what happened with the Ikusaba and Yun-chan business.

There were some interesting characters introduced, but nothing really happened. Juugo kind of reminded me of Touma from the Index series, but with a more interesting background. However, not much of his family's organization was further explored. One could see that there were some intertwining relationships between several background characters that weren't made entirely clear either. The most fun character to watch was definitely Tensai. Her mannerisms and unflappable genius pretty much carried the show for me.

Overall, this was a short anime with some decent production that doesn't accomplish a whole lot. It honestly felt like a teaser for the light novels or perhaps a second season. I highly doubt the latter will come into fruition because the sales numbers for the show don't look too good. If you are considering watching this, but haven't yet, I probably wouldn't recommend it. Tensai's greatness alone doesn't make this worth watching.

-Bern

Kotonoha no Niwa - Some Random Thoughts

Kotonoha no Niwa is a short romance film directed by Makoto Shinkai that recently came out. I've only watched a few of Shinkai's works because they tend to be sad I don't like feeling sad after I watch something. However, given the short length and the stunning visuals of several screenshots that I saw, I had nothing better to pass the time at 4am in the morning. This will contain spoilers so proceed at your own accord.

Being an anime film, and being a Shinkai film at that, it goes without saying that the visuals are outstanding. The sheer amount of detail and work that was put into the background, the rain, and of course the scenery is astounding. The audio is excellent as well. I especially like the ending song.

The gist of the film is about a young aspiring shoemaker, Akizuki, meeting an older woman, Yukino, in a park during rainy mornings. With each progressive meeting, the two seem to get closer.  However, their relationship is rather one sided; Akizuki opens up to her about his career plans, but Yukino never really says anything about herself. As the rainy season passes, they don't meet. 

When the new semester starts, Akizuki finds out that Yukino is actually a teacher at his school, and that she's quitting her job. In the earlier part of the film, we see the movie through Akizuki eyes. Even after seeing a bit from Yukino's point of view, we never really find about the root of the issue until Akizuki finds out. I feel that this is good direction. Furthermore, Akizuki mans up and confronts the upperclassmen that were spreading rumors about Yukino. He even confesses to Yukino shortly after. Compared to your standard fare of anime main characters, this guy is pretty good.

There is a lot of symbolism in the movie. When they first meet, Yukino uses a tanka to ask if they would only meet during rainy days. Akizuki responds by saying that he would meet her even if it wasn't rainy on a sunny day. At the climax of the film, the sun peeks out of the clouds when she hugs him. Another symbol used were shoes. Yukino mentions that she is learning how to "walk, albeit barefoot," or move forward from her situation. As she runs out of the apartment to chase after Akizuki she is barefoot; Akizuki making her a pair of shoes is symbolic for their meetings together that helped give her strength and get past her depression. The shoes help protect her as she "walks," or moves forward.

Although the ending of the movie may seem rather inconclusive, I think it's heavily implied that the two will meet again some day. Overall, I felt that this is a very solid short film. The visuals are fantastic, and the audio is great. The story and characters aren't perfect, and the climax is a tad bit melodramatic, but I feel that it works well. I would definitely recommend anyone to watch this movie, especially if they're a sucker for romance; it is well worth the 45 minutes. I'll leave with the ending song.

-Bern

Ixion Saga DT - First Impressions

Yo. It's been two and a half months since I've posted anything because I've been fairly busy. I pretty much skipped out on posting for the entire Summer 2012 season, and that'll probably remain unchanged for Fall 2012. With less time to watch anime, I haven't really studied up on the preview chart. Paradoxically, I wanted to be a bit more selective than usual on what to watch given time constraints. This is how I came across Ixion Saga DT, which I feel warranted a short little post because it deserves some attention.

What first caught my eye is the fact that this show is an anime original. I believe it's supposed to be based on CAPCOM's upcoming online game of the same name, but I don't think story is a very big factor in an action MMO type of game, which is why I think the guys at Brains Base can be more liberal with the writing. Along with a star-studded voice cast, the director is Takamatsu Shinji, who has directed the likes of Gintama, School Rumble, and more recently Danshi Koukousei no Nichijou. This is important because I feel that comedy is what sets this show apart from many others that have used the same setup.

At first, what this show reminded of Oda no Nobuna, which I've still yet to finish. Both main characters are thrown into an entirely different world, and ends up saving someone. Hell, they're even voiced by the same guy. That's where I think the comparisons end though. Though there looks to be some steady plot progression in this new world that Kon is thrown into, it doesn't seem to take itself very seriously. As I've mentioned before, the comedy in this show is what really makes it fun to watch. A light and humorous adventure in a fantasy world is definitely preferable to an angsty and dramatic attempt to escape it.

As for the characters, I really like the character designs. The main character is nothing special, but he really knows how to make light of the situation. The moment he kicked the big bad in the balls while the the guy was charging up his ultimate move was gold. No invincibility frames here! I quite like the token loli and the token trap as well. While she may be just eight years old, she comes off as rather wise in a naive sort of way, if that's even possible. The dual gun-wielding trap is quite the addition to the gang, too. One of the more hilarious moments during this stellar pilot episode was when Fukuyama Jun changed to his manly voice mid-sentence when we find out he's a trap. Excellent delivery. Not much to say about Sainglain so far, but he seems like a cool guy.

Overall, this was an excellent start to the series and I really had fun watching it. As long as it can maintain the comedy at this level, this is going to be a solid show, and probably one of the very few I have time to follow this season. If you've already dismissed this show because of its premise, I highly recommend you to give it a chance; you'd probably be pleasantly surprised. Time to disappear for another couple of months.

-Bern

AKB0048 13 - See You Next Stage

The one week wait for each episode of this was always long, and the time spent watching it always flew by; it was no different for the finale. I actually picked up the show four weeks into its run via recommendation by Pearz. I ended up watching all four episodes in one sitting and never looked back; you never steer me wrong, do you Pearz? Coming into this final episode, I knew there were too many loose ends to be tied, but I still expected it to go out with a bang. For the most part, I was really satisfied with the ending given that the AKB0048 franchise will have more time to tell its tale.

After being routed by the DES forces, Tsubasa was forced to end the concert on Lancastar prematurely; after all, the safety of the girls come first. However, both understudies and successors alike wished continue the concert, and Acchan's guiding voice and light was able to convince Tsubasa to allow them to complete what they started. Even after this episode, we still know nothing concrete about the Center Novae or their disappearances. Here, the clue is that Acchan's voice seems to come from no direction in particular, but shining lights are present. This suggests that Acchan hasn't really disappeared, but merely transcended the normal world into space-time. The power that allows interstellar travel is the Kirara Drive, so maybe Acchan just got stuck in that fourth dimension when the Kirara shone brilliantly on that fateful day on Lancastar.

Hey, it might not have been a duet, but it'll have to pass. Taking us back to episode two, the clashing ideology between Chieri and Nagisa was obvious: Chieri saw the others as rivals, while Nagisa wanted to sing together with everyone. Here in the finale, Chieri moved over to Nagisa's camp, for the present moment at least, because the situation is much bigger than themselves. Competition against each other is an afterthought because the people of Lancastar needed their support, otherwise the entertainment ban would put a vice grip on the planet. Moreover, the issue of Nagisa's lost voice was quickly resolved: she only needed to see that her parents were safe and that her proud mom and tsundere dad were there watching her perform in her debut.

Well, that certainly solves Takamina's dilemma quite well. Ironically, it was because she already decided to let Kanata take over after this concert that she was able protect both the understudies and the concert above all else, and ultimately be chosen by the kirara of succession once again. Something the writers did not decide to touch upon was Yuuko's desire and ambition to be Center Nova. Despite all the grit she showed about not being upstaged by the understudies, she showed none of that in this final episode. Maybe she simply realized that this concert wasn't her time with all that was going on.

I thought it was awesome that both the OP and the ED were used as insert songs. So now each one of these girls have the possibility to be the next Center Nova? All the understudies that performed shone radiantly, which is consistent with the idea that they're all possible candidates to be the next Center Nova. Though for some reason, I felt like they were hinting at Kanata. After seeing the current Takamina's soul resonated with the original's, Tsubasa asked, "What of Kanata?" It immediately transitions to the deep booming voice chanting "Center Nova," whom I assume to be Sensei-sensei, but the issue was dropped as quickly as it was brought up. I guess will probably be one of the main plot points in AKB0048's future project.

Dualium is the other clue about the Center Novae's disappearances as well the mystery behind the kirara. The common thread between Acchan's final performance and the understudies' performance was that they were both on Lancastar. It was on this planet that we saw the spawning of the girls' personal kirara. Though still in trace amounts, it seems Lancastar just so happens to have a more readily available amount of dualium compared to other planets. It also falls in line with Suzuko's seemingly trivial fact about how most 00 members come from mining planets. Perhaps the presence of dualium amplifies the effect of the kirara on the radiance of the soul. This is just pure speculation on my part, but maybe Center Novae that came before Acchan also disappeared on dualium-rich planets. When all the girls were glowing, it looked like Mii-chan was afraid that they might disappear like all the previous Center Novae did. Perhaps they didn't disappear because the radiance was distributed among the understudies, and not concentrated on one Center Nova.

There are still many questions left unanswered, but fear not, more AKB0048 was announced for 2013 post-credits. Hopefully it'll be a full-fledged second season and not a movie or an OVA. Another point of interest that flashed across our screens was "Maeda Atsuko the 14th." This leads us to believe that one of our beloved understudies will succeed and become the next Acchan, and possibly the next Center Nova. It seems that the real life Maeda Atsuko is graduating this August, so maybe there will be a plot point similar to that in the 2013 project. As for the rest, all we can really do is speculate for the next year or so. Even though many loose ends remain untied, I really liked the finale because it was packed with a bunch of awesome moments with the singing, dancing, and fighting space idols that we grew to know and love. This was a show that I looked forward to every Sunday and it certainly leaves a void now that the cour is done. I'm sure we'll all be painstakingly awaiting what is hopefully the second season. See you next stage.

-Bern

Young Animator Training Project - Dudu the Floatie

If you've got 25 minutes of free time and like lighthearted stuff, I'd definitely recommend this for a quick watch. Of the Young Animator Training Project stuff, this is only the second that I've seen, the other one being Wasurenagumo. Of the two, I definitely liked Dudu the Floatie more simply because how much more straightforward it was. Unlike the bizarre and unexpected ending that we got from Wasurenagumo, this little short's goal was easier to see: it was to highlight the bond between father and daughter.

For the visuals, what stuck out to me the most were the character designs. Just the simple contrast of size between father and daughter was cute. For  some weird reason, I really liked how the eyes were drawn too. Moreover, the color choice was rather fitting of what felt like a small segment of a kid's PG movie. 

The story is rather easy to follow. Mika is upset that her father breaks his promise of taking her to the beach yet again due to him being called in for work again. As she dozes off in the kiddie pool, she, along with Dudu, goes on an imaginative journey of adventure and self-reflection. Upon the climax of her dream, she tells her "evil self" that she'll definitely wait until her father takes her to the beach and sees her father's fear going into the sea.

Her father's reinflation of the Dudu also inflated his courage to confess his phobia to his daughter. Being the forgiving daughter that she is, they go to the beach as promised. Seeing her daughter float away into the ocean, the father overcomes his fear and swims to her to re-clasp her hand, bringing this heartwarming short to an end. I thoroughly enjoyed this, and will probably go back to watch the first 2011 short before gg translates the fourth one. It's really nice to see some talent going into the anime industry in Japan.

-Bern

AKB0048 12 - Kirara of Love

No OP this episode? Shit must be getting real then. Weeks flew by, and now we're at the penultimate episode of the series already. I expected them to do the daddy rescue this week, and finish off with the concert for the finale, but they ended up putting both in this episode. Nagisa's suffering was the main draw in this episode, but the show must go on, right?

As expected, the whole deal with Orine's Sakura machine was a non-issue. It was only for a second that she looked devastated, but Chieri comes to the rescue. She easily convinces Orine that it's not her fault and shows us more of her deft micsaber skills. If there somehow manages to be a second season, I wonder if they'll go the route of having to deal with Chieri's father. Here's to hoping that this show isn't just a giant commercial to promote the real AKB group! I'm sure the sales for this show isn't doing too shabby, though I have no citation at the moment.

Yes it is, and you should keep blaming yourself because that'll make it everything all better. Their decision to go help rescue Nagisa's dad bore no fruit, and even shot down (pun very much intended) Megu's chance to step on the same stage as Youko. In fact, Nagisa has so much angst built up that she even loses her voice and is unable to sing. My confidence in her being the next Center Nova dropped slightly, but not worries, there's still one more episode left for her to bounce back.

Meanwhile, Chieri has taken up Nagisa's role in the song Nagisa no Cherry. Taking us back to episode two, Chieri wants to prove that she is better than Nagisa, but in what respect? That she's a better singer and dancer? She already knows this. I think it proves that Chieri's determination to be an idol is a thousand times greater than Nagisa's. Maybe she did cause her dad to be detained. Maybe she is causing the other understudies trouble by losing her voice. But she is definitely thinking about this the wrong way. What ever happened to her dream of the four of them performing together on stage? Why not perform her heart out and once again convince Lancastar as well as other planets under the entertainment ban that bringing joy to people's hearts is not a crime? Maybe she'll come to realize this in the finale. I still believe!

So this will be Takamina's final concert? Though it might sound phony coming from real life politicians, I do think that true leadership means thinking about the next generation. And in Olympic fashion, Takamina is passing the torch to her successor. It looks like Takamina has finally come to terms with what's best for herself, Kanata, and the AKB group as a whole. This whole scene could be seen as a big death flag for Takamina; it all depends on whether or not Kawamori wants to add a bit more suffering to the ending. Yuuko, though with such little screen time this week, still seems very determined. With only one more episode left, we still know next to nothing about the Center Novae. I can't imagine them being able to pull it off well with only twenty minutes left.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I think that this is the first time that we see a concert get canceled on screen. It turns out that Mamoru and Yuuka's feelings are mutual, and thus a twintails kirara is born. Congratualtions on being a mom, Yuuka! Forget the idol radiance stuff, it looks like the kirara respond to their feelings when they are at a peak. Maybe all the characters will get their own kirara eventually. I'm sure they won't leave this concert unfinished for the finale. I'm expecting them to regroup, Nagisa to get her shit together, Chieri and Nagisa to sing Seaside Cherry as a duet, and ultimately find out about Acchan's disappearance. Is that too much to squeeze in for the finale? Let's hope Kawamori will pull through for us. Bracing myself for the final episode.

-Bern

AKB0048 11 - Full Circle

It has been ten episodes since our fledgling girls left Lancastar, but now they finally return to their home planet to make their debut. Home sweet home? Not quite. The girls have grown a lot during this journey, but time also flows on Lancastar; it's not the same as it used to be. Judging by the pacing and what they've covered during this episode, I'm sure the climax of the show will be the concert on Lancastar. Given that we only have two episodes left, it's hard to imagine that they'll tie up all the loose ends very well. I'm sure all of us are hoping for a second season; make it happen Japan!

Seaside Cherry. Nagisa no Cherri. Nagisa and Chieri. Very subtle there. Duet, maybe? Indeed, it looks like Tsubasa is finally making her move to find out more about the Center Novae's disappearances. Unsurprisingly, the girls are baffled that Nagisa is chosen to perform the song sung by Center Nova upon their promotion. But what does she have that the other girls don't? Not only the successors, but Kanata and Chieri are clearly more skilled than Nagisa is. As far we, the audience, know, the kirara arbitrarily glow for Nagisa is because she's the protagonist. This has clearly been affecting Chieri since the second episode of the show, but how will they resolve this? I don't think Nagisa will put on the performance of her life all of a sudden and prove that she's worthy of the Center Nova position.

The mysterious SSSS higher-up asshole is also causing conflict with successors as well. So why did he compose a new song exclusively for the understudies? Because he felt like it, that's why. Of course, these idols and idols-to-be are taught not to question the system, which interestingly mirrors how the common folk are told to unquestioningly follow the entertainment ban with vague bullshit like "entertainment leads the heart astray." Yuuko isn't going to take this sitting down; why should some upstart idol trainees get priority over the successors? The issue of blurred identity is again revisited: Is she Yuuko, or is she the person taking on the name of Yuuko? I think she's not speaking the whole truth here. She's definitely herself, much more so than she is Ooshima Yuuko; she prioritizes her dream of becoming Center Nova above all else. According to the BD booklet, her real name is Kimishima Hikaru.

This scene really gave me a good laugh. I think the majority opinion on Mamoru was that he was anti-entertainment because of the parting gift he gave Yuuka. Surprisingly, it turns out he's part of Lancastar's WOTA forces, and a Suzuko fan to boot! It's nice to see that he's worried about Yuuka's safety. Mamoru and Aoi are both pretty cool characters. More importantly, the anti-entertainment faction of the planet gained momentum since they left and Mamoru even reveals that Nagisa's dad has been arrested. Nagisa, of course, feels that she selfishly caused her dad to be arrested. With so much on her mind, how can she possibly succeed in her debut? Perhaps Acchan will return and guide her to victory. Apparently Acchan wasn't a very remarkable girl herself, but shone brilliantly once she got on stage. It's just my speculation though.

Cue dramatic sound effect. Indeed, the factory that Orine was working in back then produced DES machines. Orine seemed to like her job very much, so I'm sure this is an extremely devastating blow to her. Even worse, what if the machine she helped build actually kills her? Kawamori won't pull that shit on us now, right? Besides, Chieri is too awesome to let something like that happen. It's hard to imagine what they'll actually fit in with only two episodes left. Right now, it seems like Lancastar is swarming with DES forces, even more so than on Tundrastar. Before she was interrupted by the DES, Nagisa was rashly going to try to rescue her dad, so maybe that'll be in the next episode, leaving the debut concert for the finale. Personally, what I want to know most about is the mystery surrounding the Center Nova. Here's to hoping for two impossibly brilliant episodes to cap off this great run.

-Bern

AKB0048 10 - Gratuitous Gravure

This week's installment of futuristic space idols feature an obligatory beach episode with the fanservice in midseason form. Being an idol the show, there's no way they'd skip out on one of these; I mean what's a better way to promote your group than showing scantily clad girls on the beach? Though it definitely contained less plot than its predecessors, this week's episode reaffirms the issues at hand, provides a bit more insight into some of the characters, and certainly sets itself up nicely for the next episode. Bring on the suffering Kawamori; you don't scare me!

I don't even own a pair of yuri goggles, but I knew what they were nudging at here. It looks like we didn't get a resolution from Takamina's last line in the previous episode about how the name "Takamina" belongs to Kanata. In fact, I think this'll probably be the extent of this issue; Takamina, though with some doubt, will continue as a successor as long as she can; Kanata will continue to be an understudy despite having successor level skills. With only three episodes left, I hope we can soon see this system get turned on its head and finally find out what this shady Sensei-sensei is all about.

We were already given hints that Tsubasa was a former member, but some new knowledge that we get is that she performed side by side with the last Center Nova, Acchan. From her talk with Yuuko and Mii-chan, it appears she's still clueless about the disappearances of the Center Novae, yet is trying to bring back the position. It sort of leads me to question her character a bit: Acchan's disappearance on stage that day prompted her to join the support staff, yet after all these years she hasn't really found anything on it; she just seems to be blindly obeying the rules and eating up whatever Sensei-sensei tells her to do. What's more important though is what the Center Novae saw; if it caused Mii-chan to run away and quit, it's probably something dangerous right? 

I guess we'll finally see Tsubasa make her move because she's planning to make Chieri/Nagisa the next Center Nova; Mii-chan and Yuuko wouldn't be too pleased. Speaking of which, in the day-off episode, Yuuko said that Mii-chan was rumored to be spotted on Atamistar; I wonder if she recognized her and got in touch with her. Though even if she did, Mii-chan seems pretty adamant about preventing the position from resurrecting and wouldn't tell her anything. Looking at the preview next episode, the group is returning to Lancastar. Will Yuuka's (ex)boyfriend make a reappearance? Will Nagisa finally be able to get some legitmate screen-time now that we're back on her home-planet? Will Chieri's fixation on Nagisa's supposed "idol radiance" finally make her snap? Most importantly, what will we learn about Center Novae position? Sunday can't come soon enough.

-Bern

Episode 11 Preview

AKB0048 09 - Under Gray Skies

Yes, I realize that episode 10 already aired. So my laptop died on me a bit over a week ago, and combining that with being busier than usual and limited computer access, I was only able to watch this episode just now. Hopefully when my new hard drive gets here, I'll be able to get back on schedule, especially with a lot of the new shows this season starting to air. Content-wise, I thought it was a great episode: it revisted the Megu/Sae relationship; it tied in the dreams of the four young girls from the first gureilla concert that they saw; and of course, the main focus was definitely the Takamina/Kanata relationship.

As suspected, Megu and Sae's relationship runs much deeper than just being generation-mates. But now, their realtionship is rather strained, especially after that argument they had the previous episode. For now, it looks like Mimori is able to quell any angst she had and get her ready to help support the concert. However, this issue will continue to persist until either she is able to get promoted or Megu and Sae are able to work things out together. Again, I look to the arbitrary succession system as the source that causes the rift between girls.

The understudies meeting with the four young girls on Tundrastar really prompted a look at how far Nagisa, Chieri, Yuuka, and Orine have come since their first encounter with AKB0048. Though they're not full-fledged idols yet, they're well trained and this marks the first time they were able to perform together in front of fans. Will Kawamori allow all four to stand on stage as successors together by the end of all this? Only time will tell. Moreover, they, along with the rest of the understudies and successors, were able bring joy and hope to a full-entertainment banned planet. Another thing of note is that Chieri's Kirara seems to be shining more frequently for Nagisa recently. Maybe this hints at her role in the show taking center stage (pun very much intended) as this arc heads to a close. Though some may see Nagisa as a rather bland main character, I feel that the trait that separates her from the rest of the cast is that she isn't afraid to speak her mind and she takes the initiative at times of indecision.

Finally, the Takamina/Kanata relationship continues to be the main course. Takamina is extremely determined to remain part of the group and "retain" her identity as THE Takahashi Minami. It was quite heartbreaking to see the scene where she tells Kanata to take off her uniform. Though Kanata just missed her opportunity to perform in such a big role, she had nothing but sheer admiration for Takamina's grit to give it her best on stage. It looks like this arc will reach its conclusion in the coming episode; I'm looking forward to it.

-Bern

AKB0048 08 - Pretenders

After I dropped Tsuritama, Pearz convinced me to watch AKB0048, which is of a genre that I don't usually watch: all-girl cast and mecha. I gave it a go I really liked the show, so this will probably fill that Tsuritama void. Up until this episode, the previous installments really focused around the understudies and their journey to become full-fledged idols. This week's focus was largely around the captain of the captain of the current team 00 and the dynamic between successor and understudy.

Continuing from the previous episode, the stand-ins performed really well and the concert went without a hitch. The scene above shows a cute moments between Chieri and Nagisa that I really liked. It really highlights Chieri's progression from a super serious idol-to-be to a much more friendly individual. Now that Nagisa and the rest of the 77th generation will be able to participate in a concert for the first time, will she finally set herself apart from the rest? Due her being the protagonist, I really think that Nagisa is destined to be the next center and revive the position. However, the only evidence of that so far was way back in episode 2, where the kirara shone with radiance for Nagisa.

One thing I really like about this show is how the dynamics between all four groups (current successors, and the three generations) are quite different. Last week, we saw the jealousy of the 76th generation because someone from the 77th generation was selected before them. We see that again this week, but again, they were looked over because they wouldn't be able to perform the set list. Nonetheless, the tension is there, especially for Megumi. She's really vocal about her frustrations and isolates herself from the rest of the group. Moreover, we learn that the current Sae is the only one of the 76th generation who became a successor. It appears Megumi's relationship has greatly deteriorated since Youko became a successor. According to the translated glossary, there are many empty spots on the current 00 team that aren't filled because there is no understudy with a soul close to any of the originals. It is this rather arbitrary succession process by an external power that is really creating all the angst and drama. If not, I'm sure plenty of them have the dancing, singing, and combat skills necessary for promotion.

And probably none more worthy of succession is Kanata. This episode really hammered home her admiration of Takamina, which hurt Takamina all the more. Just like the Kirara of Succession showed, Kanata has the leadership and determination to make her the spitting image of the original Takamina. Perhaps more to be explored is her quest for revenge, which is indeed still part of her. She may have even destroyed a manned DES craft during this episode.

Surprisingly, Takamina was able to avoid her death flag triggered last week. Saving the suffering for later, eh Kawamori? Aside from what was obvious from the conversation about prioritizing one's dream over those of others, I think there was a focus on becoming someone you're not. Thinking back to the episode when they had their day off, Tomochin wondered what it would be like if they lived as someone other than name they inherited as successors. Takamina may try as hard as she can, but she'll never fully copy the original Takamina because they're not the same person. This is something I think they shouldn't worry about too much. They don't need to be the same person; they should just keep what the original members had in mind: to sing, dance, and perform their hearts out to give hope to those listening and watching, and to work towards fully lifting the entertainment ban put into place by the DGTO. Looking forward to next week's episode.

Episode 9 Preview

-Bern

Summer Anime Season 2012 Preview

It's that time of year again; credits on their respective charts.

      

This season's post was much more manageable than the last solely because of the sheer number of shows during Spring. With that being said, there isn't anything that I'm super-excited about, but there are several shows that look quite promising. As per usual, second seasons of shows won't get descriptions and some shows don't have any trailers or promotional videos yet. Information compiled from the following sources: ANN, myanimelist, anidb, and mangaupdates.

Kingdom - Manga adaption [trailer]
Genre: Action, Drama, Historical, Seinen
Description: In the Warring States Period of ancient China (475-221 BCE), Shin and Hyou are war-orphans in the kingdom of Qin. They dream of one day proving themselves on the battlefield. One day, however, Hyou is taken to the palace by a minister. Winding up on the losing side of a power-struggle, Hyou manages to return to the village, barely alive. Shin then meets a boy who closely resembles Hyou, Ei Sei. For now he is the king of Qin; later he will become the emperor Shi Huangdi.

Bern's Thoughts: This has already started airing. I'm not particularly interested in sengoku-like period settings. Also, I heard that the CGI was pretty bad. I won't be watching this.
Djr7's Thoughts: Basically what Bern said.
Pearz' Thoughts: 1 look and I can already tell I will hate this art style and won’t even give them a chance.

Muv-Luv Alerternative: Total Eclipse - Manga adaption [trailer]
Genre: Action, Mecha
Description: In the year 1973, alien species known as BETA (Beings of Extra Terrestrial origin which is Adversary of human race) came to invade earth. During the next 30 years, they have conquered most of the Eurasian continent, effectively decreasing the world population by billions. In response to their unique behavior, a new type of mobile mechanical humanoid weapon was developed, known as Tactical Surface Fighter (TSF).
In the year 2001, elite pilots from around the world start to gather at a UN base in Alaska named Yukon to participate in the Prominence Project. This project is a joint effort between Russia and America on research and development of next generation of TSF. The job of the pilots is to test the prototypes, which occasionally involves pitting them one against another...
Bern's Thoughts: I think this is a sequel of a spinoff or something of the like. Not a follower of the series so I won't be watching this.

Djr7's Thoughts: Reminds me of Gundam, I do like the character art and will watch this to question who designed the flight suits for the chicks and why the chose to show of so much ass and tits. If it's just action and Mecha then there's a good chance I wont watch it unless it has some sort of humour/decent plot. 

Pearz' Thoughts: You got mecha and a more sci-fi background. Definitely worth giving it a shot, though I will probably be disappointed.
OkamiSan’s Thoughts: Dunno anything about this but seeing as it has action and mecha I’ll see what this has in store. Won’t be expecting much though.

Chouyaku Hyakunin Isshu: Uta Koi. - Manga adaption [trailer]
Genre: Historical, Josei
Description: Uta Koi tells the "super-liberal interpretation" of the Hyakuninisshu anthology compiled during Japan's Heinan period of 100 romantic poems from different poets such as Genji's Murasaki Shikibu.
Bern's Thoughts: This doesn't look like my cup of tea, so I won't be watching this.
Djr7's Thoughts: Is this a history lesson? I don't think i'll watch it.

Pearz' Thoughts: Umm... no. I watch anime not for the culture, I like my flashy battles D:

Koi to Senkyo to Chocolate - Visual novel adaption [trailer]
Genre: Drama, Romance
Description: Koi to Senkyo to Chocolate follows the protagonist Yuuki Oojima, who attends Private Takafuji Academy, a large school with over 6,000 students. Yuuki is a member of the food research club, along with seven others, including his childhood friend Chisato Sumiyoshi. The members leisurely spend their time in the club not doing much activities. When the election of the next student council president comes up, the front runner Satsuki Shinonome proposes that clubs that have no merit should be sorted out and abolished. The food research club seeks advice from the current student council president Yakumo Mori, who suggests Yuuki run in the election as an opposing candidate. Yuuki learns about the issues facing the school and decides to run in the election.
Bern's Thoughts: This shapes up to be your typical school life romance anime. I think it'll all hinge on the protagonist to see if this will be decent or not. I'll give it a shot.
Djr7's Thoughts: Michuru's hair is awesome, and I think that is "dark" chocolate, which is my favorite. I will pick it up and see how well the characters are constructed. 

Pearz' Thoughts: The first of the VN adaptations. I am obligated to watch one episode to decide on the best girl and to see how terrible to main character is.

OkamiSan’s Thoughts: Bern has it right, I too will be watching this depending on the protagonist.

Kono Naka ni Hitori, Imouta ga Iru - Light novel adaption [trailer]
Genre: Comedy, Harem, Romance
Description: Abiding by his father's will, Shougo was transferred into an academy where many young girls attend. It appears as though his younger sister (separated from him at birth) also attends this academy, and that she is trying to get closer to him without letting know him who she actually is. Problem is, Shougo seems to be popular with the other girls as well! Can Shougo "properly" reunite with his little sister and while making a girlfriend at the same time?!
Bern's Thoughts: Transfer to a girls' academy? A younger sister separated from him at birth? This already spells standard harem hijinks. You really can't go two seasons without some imouto love, can you?
Djr7's Thoughts: Not a fan of the bright art, nor do I find any reason to watch this.

Pearz' Thoughts: Oh god, more harems. This one seems more comical then the other one so a larger likelyhood of me sticking through. I always wonder how these ecchi light novels work, kinda seems lack luster if it was just words.
OkamiSan’s Thoughts: At least bring out something new from this generic genre. Just as Mahou Shoujo Madoka Magica brought something new to the mahou shoujo theme.

Moyashimon Returns (Season 2) - Manga adaption [trailer1][trailer2][trailer3][trailer4]
Genre: Comedy, Seinen, Supernatural
Description: Season 2 of Moyashimon.
Bern's Thoughts: Yes, please. This makes one-half of the noitaminA block this coming season. I remember watching this a long while ago and loving it. I don't remember whether it was the college setting, or the educational stuff about microbes, but I'm looking forward to this one. Edit: Just re-watched the first season, my body is ready.
Djr7's Thoughts: I have no idea what to think, never saw the first and I don't think I'll be picking this up.

Pearz' Thoughts: having no idea what this is, I can’t say I will even give it a chance. Maybe Bern will fill me in on the awesomeness later on. 

OkamiSan’s Thoughts: Watched the first series, and it was quite entertaining. This one should one to look forward to.

Natsuyuki Rendezvous - Manga adaption [trailer]
Genre: Drama, Josei, Romance, Supernatural
Description: Hazuki falls in love at first sight with a flower shop owner named Rokka and decides to get closer to her by applying as a part-time employee. A going-away party soon brings him to her doorstep, and Hazuki is elated. But what happens when he discovers that residing in her apartment is the spirit of the man she can never forget?
Bern's Thoughts: The other half of the noitaminA time slot. I think I'll be passing on this one. I tried both Apollon and Tsuritama this past season and ended up dropping them. I guess noitaminA shows aren't must tries for me anymore.

Djr7's Thoughts: Why do the eyes look so messed up? There doesn't seem to be anything here worthy of my short atten... BICYCLE!!

Pearz' Thoughts: This is clearly not for me, I just hate this art style let alone the terrible plot.

Campione! - Light novel adaption - [trailer]
Genre: Action, Comedy, Fantasy, Harem
Description: A harem love comedy plus magic battles. Kusanagi Godo is a 16-year-old high school boy, who once killed the god "Verethragna" and acquired the title of "Campione (god killer)" when he was 15. Erica Brandelli is a 16-year-old Italian girl, who is a "Great Knight" of the magic society "Bronze Black Cross" and had fought together with Godo to defeat Verethragna. Godo doesn't like fighting but his title of "Campione" makes him get involved in battles against other Campiones and uncontrollable gods.
Bern's Thoughts: Looks like your standard fantasy harem show; I don't see anything that really stands out to me. Maybe I'll check it out to see if they have cool sword fights.

Djr7's Thoughts: The characters look fun and this show should give some much needed harem/action that I seem to crave at the moment for some strange reason.

Pearz' Thoughts: A main character that hates fighting in a harem setting, seems awfully generic but I am still suckered in to watch 1 episode... I am part of the problem...
OkamiSan’s Thoughts: Uhh... Okay? I’ll give this one a shot. Don’t really know what to make of it though...

Hagure Yuusha no Estetica - Light novel adaption [trailer1][trailer2]
Genre: Action, Ecchi, Fantasy, Harem,
Description: In normal RPGs, a hero defeats the Satan king and the story ends. But what does the hero do after that? Ohtorizawa Akatsuki defeats the Satan king in the fantasy world of Alleyzard and returns to the real world. He is sheltered by the international organization BABEL, which protects and controls people transferred from the outer worlds. BABEL is astonished to know Akatsuki has really defeated Satan and brings Satan's daughter Miu from Alleyzard. In the academy of BABEL, Akatsuki confronts other "returners", who have psychic powers.
Bern's Thoughts: Again, another very standard looking fantasy harem. Not a big fan of the character designs I see from the trailers either. I doubt I'll be watching this.
Djr7's Thoughts: I think I will be watching Campione! over this, plus I agree with Bern on characters looking pretty lame.
Pearz' Thoughts: Interesting setting, thought the PVs turned me off staring at crazy light beams across the screen. I'll see if the stars align perfectly I will give this a shot.
OkamiSan’s Thoughts: Hmm... We seem to be having a number of harems this summer. Thankfully this one doesn't have the comedy part, also the fact that its action makes me hope for something....more

Rinne no Lagrange Season 2 - Anime original [trailer]
Genre: Action, Mecha
Description: Season 2 of Rinne no Lagrange.
Bern's Thoughts: One of the few must sees for me. I used to never watch mecha shows, or shows with the main cast consisting of girls only. I really enjoyed the first season, so I hope the second will give this show a satisfactory ending.
Djr7's Thoughts: Not sure about this one, the quality and battle art seems pretty weak, doubt I will get around to watching this anytime soon.
Pearz' Thoughts: I can't say I particularly enjoyed season 1, but it also wasn't bad either. The PV caught my eye at least, maybe I'll follow this show through if the first few episodes keep my captivated.
OkamiSan’s Thoughts: Yes please! The First season was surprisingly good considering the fact that I’m not into all female heroines. And I mean that like literally, not to mention as all “good guys” are girls, all “bad guys” are boys...weird really. Still one worth watching...

Sword Art Online - Light novel adaption [trailer]
Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Game, Romance,
Description:
 The only way to escape is to 'clear' the game. Game over means actual 'death' ---- The ten thousand who have logged onto the as of yet mysterious game 'Sword Art Online' have been forced into this perilous death game. Protagonist Kirito, one of the many gamers, has greeted this 'truth'.
He plays as a solo player in the giant castle that is the stage for this game ---- 'Aincrad'. To meet the conditions of clearing the game --- getting through all 100 floors, Kirito fights his way through this quest alone.
Bern's Thoughts: The novel is extremely popular, so I think this is one of the more hyped shows of the season. Judging by the trailer, it seems that A-1 Pictures will be doing a decent job art-wise. I hope this doesn't disappoint.
Djr7's Thoughts: I've always loved the idea of anime where everything happens inside a video game, I was very disappointed with ".Hack/" but this looks rather intriguing. 
Pearz' Thoughts: This was one of the super aticipated shows this season, hopefully it lives up to it's hype. Maybe I'll even write about it!

OkamiSan’s Thoughts: I’ve been excited about this one. It has a new(ish) idea, is action packed and hopefully has just the right amount of romance. This is a must see and should be this summer's most anticipated.

Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon Season 2 - Light novel adaption [trailer]
Genre: Action, Fantasy
Description: Season 2 of Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon.
Bern's Thoughts: I didn't watch the first season so I probably won't be watching this. I know OkamiSan will be happy though!
Djr7's Thoughts: Got halfway through the first before stopping, but I think I might finish it up to check this out. The one thing I liked about the first season was its crazy amount of weird characters, even though some of them had balloon boobs. 
Pearz' Thoughts: As interesting as it looks, I could not get through the first season. They were clearly not aiming this show to attract people new to the universe.
OkamiSan’s Thoughts: MINE! nuff said...

Dog Days Season 2 - Anime original [trailer1][trailer2]
Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Shounen
Description: Season 2 of Dog Days.
Bern's Thoughts: I enjoyed the first season of this enough to see this one. It'll probably be a different feel though, since two girls will accompany Cinque in this next trip to the world of Flonyard.

Djr7's Thoughts: Never saw the first one but I'm sure i'll get around to it eventually. I won't be watching this until some time in the future.
Pearz' Thoughts: This was one of the "kick back and just enjoy" shows. It was not particularly good, but it had it's moments. I'll see how this goes with season 2. Sometimes mindless fun is okay too.
OkamiSan’s Thoughts: This should be entertaining to watch though I know I won’t anything above average about this.

Ebiten: Kouritsu Ebisugawa Koukou Tenmon-bu - Manga adaption [trailer]
Genre: School, Shounen
Description: Noya Itsuki just started his school year at the Ebisugawa High School and since he has always had a fascination with space, he decides to join the astronomy club. However, he mistakenly walks into the all girls Otaku Club. He notices that the members are really weird, but Itsuki has yet to realize that he isn’t in the astronomy club. His life is about to get complicated by being surrounded by so many girls.
Bern's Thoughts: I think this has the same character designer as Seitokai no Ichizon. Being a web animation, I doubt this will even get subs.
Djr7's Thoughts: Looks like it might be a good laugh and fun to watch. 
Pearz' Thoughts: Sometimes it just cracks me up the crazy settings they come up with. I'll give it an episode to see what it has got.
OkamiSan’s Thoughts:....eh?

Jinrui wa Suitai Shimashita - Light novel adaption [trailer1][trailer2][trailer3]
Genre: Fantasy, Seinen
Description: The story is set several centuries into the slow decline of mankind. Earth has now become the realm of "fairies" — 10-centimeter-tall creatures with remarkable intelligence and an appetite for sweets. The human protagonist of the story serves an important duty as the international arbitrator between the fairies and humans, and she returns to her former hometown of Kusunoki. She chose this job because she thought it was an easy job she can do, even when she is as old as her grandfather. However, she learns that her job is anything but simple when she meets the fairies.
Bern's Thoughts: If not for the description, I probably wouldn't be able to tell what was going in the trailers. Overall, it looks to be a rather odd show; the colors sort of remind me of Tsuritama.
Djr7's Thoughts: What the heck were those naked headless chickens? I don't think I'll be watching this.
Pearz' Thoughts: Odd art style combined with odd setting just doesn't look like it is for me.
OkamiSan’s Thoughts: I see a weird concept especially from seeing the PV... so im all for it. New ideas are always good. Just hope they don’t destroy it with a bad story or whatever.

La Storia Dellla Arcana Famiglia - Otome game adaption [trailer]
Genre: Action, Comedy, Romance
Description: The story follows Arcana Famiglia, a self-appointed organization with mysterious powers that has protected a small Mediterranean island from pirates, foreign countries, and other threats. The only daughter of the family's "Papa," Felicitá, will be married to the next head of the family in two months — and the successor will be decided in a competition that Felicitá herself will take part in.
Bern's Thoughts: Otome game adaption, huh. I wonder if this'll also fade into invisibility like Hiiro no Kakera. I'll pass.

Djr7's Thoughts: The art looks awesome, wonder what it'l look like for the actual animated characters though, this is worth looking into. 
Pearz' Thoughts: Nothing like Otome game adaptations to raking in the real money. The trailer had interesting art style that has peeked my interest, I'll give it a chance.

Dakara Boku wa, H ga Dekinai - Light novel adaption [trailer]
Genre: Comedy, Ecchi, Romance, Supernatural
Description: Kaga Ryosuke, a helplessly romantic teenager, was walking in the rain when he sees a beautiful girl with red eyes drenched in the rain. Everyone was avoiding her, but Ryosuke was taught to treasure women so he offered his help by letting her dry off at his home. Ryosuke can't imagine that this mysterious girl would stab him in the chest and leave him to die… Or did she? Who is this pretty girl and what does she want with him?
Bern's Thoughts: I remember reading the first couple chapters of the manga but I didn't continue it. That probably doesn't bode well. The mild nudity from the trailer and a red-haired main girl really draws comparisons with High School DxD. I ended up enjoying DxD, so maybe I should give this one a shot as well.

Djr7's Thoughts: High School DxD was awesome and carried this charm to it. This show looks very similar so I will definitely check it out.
Pearz' Thoughts: I guess we have to have a show with outright ecchi in it every season too. I'll give it a firm maybe (probably not, I rather watch random harem crap)

OkamiSan’s Thoughts: This screams Highschool DxD. Sigh, I just hope they don't overload the series with nonsensical ecchi and mild nudity.

Joshiraku - Manga adaption [trailer]
Genre: Comedy, Slice of life
Description: A group of girls discusses random things and usually reaches an unusual or humorous conclusion that's far from the initial discussion topic.
Bern's Thoughts: Honestly, this looks rather boring.
Djr7's Thoughts: This is the worst description for a show in the history of doughnuts. Seems like its Hyouka except they talk about funny stuff and come to a funny conclusion about something funny. I don't think I will have any fun watching this.  
Pearz' Thoughts: I'll give it a shot just because it is same author as Sayonara Zetsubou Sensei which I always regret not finishing. I wouldn't otherwise based on the trailer and description.

Oda Nobuna no Yabou - Light novel adaption [trailer1][trailer2][trailer3]
Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Romance, Shounen
Description: The historical romantic comedy follows 17-year-old high schooler Sagara Yoshiharu who one day time-travels to the Sengoku period, where all the major Samurai lords are cute girls. Yoshiharu meets Oda Nobuna, the girl counterpart of Oda Nobunaga, and begins to serve her as a substitute of Kinoshita Tokichiro, who has been dead in the world.
Bern's Thoughts: Japan's twist on things always making someone or something a girl. Again, I'm not too keen sengoku period, so I don't think I'll be watching this.
Djr7's Thoughts: I'll pass.
Pearz' Thoughts: Can we really not go 1 season without a gender bent Oda? Is this a secret trick to teach people about their history in a media form they like? I guess it would work... Too bad nothing happens in Canadian history...
OkamiSan’s Thoughts: Interesting, first they turn Arthur into a girl in the Fate series, now they do the same with Oda Nobunaga. Meh, I’ll give this one a shot, just more action, better direction, less harem comed...

Hakuouki Reimeiroku - Game adaption [trailer]
Genre: Action, Drama, Historical, Shoujo, Supernatural
Description: A third TV series, it is the prequel of Hakuouki and tells the story of the dawning of the Shinsengumi.
Bern's Thoughts: I don't know anything about the previous series, so I won't be watching this.
Djr7's Thoughts: Basically what Bern said.
Pearz' Thoughts: Third season, guess it sold well, I wouldn't know.

Tari Tari - Anime original [trailer1][trailer2]
Genre: School
Description: The story centers around five Japanese high school students who are too young to be called adults, but who no longer think of themselves as children.
Wakana Sakai once took music lessons, but she withdrew from music after losing her mother. Konatsu Miyamoto is a positive-thinking girl who loves singing and spends time after school at the vocal music club. Sawa Okita is a spirited archery club member who dreams of becoming a horse rider. Daichi Tanaka is a chronically late badminton team member who lives with his college student sister. "Wiin" just transfered into Wakana's class after 12 years abroad in Australia.
Music brings Wakana, Konatsu, Sawa and the others together into an ensemble during their last summer in high school.
Bern's Thoughts: This is another show that looks promising, especially being an anime original. P.A. works continues to amaze me with their high quality art, most recently with Hanasaku Iroha, and Another. I'll definitely check this one out.

Djr7's Thoughts: I hope the plot doesn't take a nosedive like "Another". Worth the watch just for the visuals.

Pearz Thoughts: As I watched the trailer, I was like "this art style looks quite familiar". It looks identical to Hanasaku in every way. I definitely love PA works, hopefully it won't be as boring as Hanasaku.

Binbou-gami ga! - Manga adaption [trailer]
Genre: Action, Comedy, Shounen, Supernatural
Description: Sakura Ichiko is a 16-year-old girl who leads a charmed life and is blessed with beauty, brains, and health. She has an abundance of “Happiness Energy”, which can make people happy, but at the cost of absorbing all the “Happiness Energy” from her surroundings. She has caused the energy balance of the world to become unbalanced and because of this, she becomes the target of a Poverty God named Momiji. Momiji's goal is to remove Ichiko’s power of absorbing other people’s Happiness Energy and to return all the energy she has taken to its rightful place.
Bern's Thoughts: I remember I tried to read the first chapter of this manga a long time ago, but I just couldn't get into it. I doubt I'll be watching this.
Djr7's Thoughts: I think this will be a show where I watch the first episode then drop it forever. 
Pearz' Thoughts: I flipped through the first chapter and it looked okay but the art style turned me off.

Kokoro Connect - Light novel adaption [trailer1][trailer2]
Genre: Comedy, Gender Bender, Romance, Slice of Life
Description: The "love and teen pentagonal comedy" follows the strange phenomena at the Yamahoshi Academy's Culture Club, starting with the five male and female club members switching bodies with each other.
Bern's Thoughts: I'm usually not a big fan of gender bender/ body swapping in general, but I really love the character designs. I also like Silver Link as a studio so I'll be checking this out.

Djr7's Thoughts: Wasn't sure what to think, but then I saw the chick try to commit suicide (I think), I will take a look and see what this show has to offer. 

Pearz' Thoughts: What is this switching body bit? Didn't get that feel from the PVs at all. Interesting enough setting to give it a shot though.

Chitose Get You!! - 4-koma adaption [trailer]
Genre: Comedy, School, Romance, Slice of Life, Seinen
Description: Chitose is an 11 year old girl who is madly in love with an older guy named Hiroshi. He works at the town hall right next to the school and Chitose spends every day relentlessly pursuing him. Can Chitose ever convince Hiroshi to go out with her?
Bern's Thoughts: Generally not a big fan of 4-koma adaptions, but there are exceptions like Nichibros and Seitokai Yakuindomo. Will this be an exception?
Djr7's Thoughts: No thanks, not interested at all.
Pearz' Thoughts: Flipped through a bit of the first chapter, couldn't even finish that...

Yuru Yuri Season 2 - Manga adaption [trailer]
Genre: Comedy, School Life, Shoujo, Slice of Life
Description: The second season of Yuru Yuri.
Bern's Thoughts: I didn't watch the first season, so I won't be watching this either.
Djr7's Thoughts: Ditto Bern.
Pearz' Thoughts: I heard good things about season 1, alas I will not be watching this.

Blood Lad - Manga adaption [trailer]
Genre: Comedy, Supernatural, Slice of Life
Description: Staz is the vampire boss of a section of the demon world, but he has little interest in human blood. He's more infatuated with Japanese culture. When he learns that Yanagi Fuyumi, a Japanese teenage girl, accidentally wanders into the demon city, he jumps to the occasion. However, while Staz deals with an intruder on his turf, the oblivious Fuyumi is killed by a monster and becomes a wandering ghost. The disappointed Staz vows to her that he will find a way to bring Fuyumi back to life.
Bern's Thoughts: I'm usually skeptical about anything that has vampires in it, but after reading through the first chapter of the manga, the main character gave me a good impression. I'll check this out.
Djr7's Thoughts: Funny how this is similar to Disgaea 4 (PS3), I will definitely take a look at this. 
Pearz Thoughts: I am with Bern with this. I was pretty skeptical from the description but the first chapter turned out pretty good. I can't say I like the art style though...

Arve Rezzle - Light novel adaption [trailer]
Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama, Mystery, Sci-fi, Thriller,
Description: In 2022, the technology of quantum computing has greatly advanced and many people have transfered their mind into the cyber space. Remu's sister-in-law, Shiki, skipped grades and entered a high school in the academic city "Okinotori-island Mega Float City (OMFC)" when she was 14. One day, Shiki confessed to her brother via Skype that she was talking to him directly from the cyber space and her real body had been kept in a water tank filled with a culture medium. It's called "Body pool" and Shiki connected to the network by nanomachines implanted in her brain. Remu was surprised but he accepted her decision until an accident called "Early Rupture" happened. The network server got overloaded and users' minds were lost in cyber space leaving soulless living bodies in the Body Pools. In order to bring Shiki's mind back, Remu visits her apartment in OMFC and there meets Shiki escaped from the hospital. But the girl tells him that she is not Shiki and she happens to haven taken over Shiki's body. When Remu tries to figure out the situation, a violent attack strikes the apartment.

Bern's Thoughts: Looking at the synopsis alone, this looks very interesting. However, I believe this will be an OVA instead of a TV series, so there probably won't be many episodes. Sadface.
Djr7's Thoughts: I see "Thriller" so I will watch it for sure. The real reason I want to watch this is the picture of the girl holding a scythe to a guys neck with creepy red eyes. 
Pearz' Thoughts: I life sci-fi-ish stories like these. Definite will be giving this a watch, hopefully it is a series and not an OVA like Bern says!

In sum, my tentative to watch list will be:

Shows I'm looking forward to:
Moyashimon Returns
Rinne no Lagrange Season 2
Dog Days Season 2

Shows I have hope in:
Sword Art Online
Tari Tari
Kokoro Connect
Blood Lad

Interestingly enough, the shows that I'm looking forward to are all second seasons. In addition those listed above, I'll probably test the waters with a few of the many harem shows to see if any of them are to my liking. That aside, this season looks much thinner compared to the previous one. Maybe there's a hidden gem somewhere that I'm overlooking.

-Bern